Restoring a beautiful and healthy smile has been made easier and more reliable with advances in dentistry. Extensive damage or loss of upper and lower teeth used to mean wearing uncomfortable dentures. When dental implants were developed, it made it possible for people to enjoy replacement teeth that were functionally the same as the natural teeth.
Now we’ve made another important step in dental surgery, with all on 4 dental implants.
The name is the giveaway here. All on four dental implants are synthetic teeth mounted to four anchor points along the jaw. Instead of a replacement for every missing tooth, an entire row can be replaced with less downtime and impressive results.
Let’s cover everything you need to know about this exciting development in modern dentistry.
What are All on 4 Dental Implants?
You may have heard of all on four dental implants under the name of implant dentures or snap in dentures.
These implants consist of several key elements:
- Four dental implants in the jaw which serve as the anchoring points for a long-lasting denture.
- Four abutments above the gum where replacement teeth will be mounted.
- A row of full replacement teeth.
- Retaining screw to connect the denture to the abutments and implants.
Unlike a removable denture, all on four dental implants are considered a semi-permanent replacement. The dental implants themselves can last a lifetime when carefully managed, while the replacement denture will last a minimum of eight years, and usually much longer.
What are the Benefits of All on 4 Dental Implants?
The benefits of all on 4 dental implants are significant and extensive.
- Dentures have a lower profile compared to removable dentures.
- There’s no impact on taste or any gag reflex.
- Teeth don’t need to be removed and are cared for just like natural teeth.
- The dentures won’t shift or fall out.
- There’s minimal risk of irritation and inflammation.
- All on 4 implants in Surrey BC can preserve or restore facial contours, and eliminate the sagging that occurs with false teeth or extensive tooth loss.
- The implantation procedure helps to limit progressive bone loss in the jaw.
- Your bite will be natural, allowing you to enjoy food and speech just like you would with a full row of natural teeth.
The biggest takeaway to consider is that all on 4 implants will act and look just like natural teeth. This means you won’t have to suffer from embarrassing moments or avoid the food and activities that you enjoy.
While the cost of all on 4 implants in Surrey BC is higher than removable dentures, the benefits more than make up the difference. If you want to restore a healthy and confident smile, this could be the perfect procedure for you.
How Much Do All on Four Dental Implants Cost?
The cost can vary significantly, depending on any initial work that needs to be performed, as well as the type of teeth that you choose to have installed using the all on four method.
The most affordable dentures used for this procedure are made from acrylic. This typically costs as low as $20,000 or as high as $30,000 including the surgery and the custom denture. For more natural-looking and longer-lasting dentures, porcelain is a popular alternative. High-quality porcelain dentures will add at least $5,000 to the basic cost.
If dentures break after the surgery due to improper care or trauma, replacement cost is often between $10,000 and $15,000.
The cost is reasonable when considering how long the dentures can last. Acrylic dentures can last up to ten years, while porcelain dentures can last much longer. Durability ranges significantly between patients and is dependent on bite force, design, the accuracy of the surgery, and quality of the dentures.
Some factors like smoking and alcohol consumption could reduce the durability of dentures.
To ensure that you get a beatufil smile with all on 4 implants in Surrey BC, insist on a reputable dental practice in Canada.
Learn About the All on 4 Implant Procedure
You can reduce anxiety and uncertainty ahead of surgery by understanding the procedure for all on 4 implants in Surrey BC.
Surgery is performed under anesthesia to ensure that no pain or discomfort is felt. In the first stage of the procedure, your dental surgeon will prepare your mouth and jaw for the implants. This includes removing infected tissue and the remains of any damaged or broken teeth.
Major infections may require the use of medication and a longer downtime between preparation and implantation. This will be discussed between you and your dentist, based on your oral health.
In the second stage of surgery, titanium screws will be embedded into your jawbone. These are the anchors that will support your new dentures. Two implants will be located towards the front of your mouth, with another two towards the back to help stabilize your dentures. The exact location will depend on your jaw shape and natural bite. Your dentist will take special care to locate the anchors in a way that evenly distributes pressure across your jaw. Your mouth will be cleaned and surgical wounds will be sutured.
Recovery Expectations
The recovery in the initial 24 hours can come with some pain and discomfort as the anesthetic wears off. Gauze pads will be used to stop any bleeding over the implant sites. This gauze needs to be replaced at least once an hour until the bleeding has subsided.
You will be advised to avoid any strenuous activity and sudden movements in the days following recovery. Mouth rinsing and cleaning are essential. A medicated rinse will be prescribed to inhibit bacteria buildup in your mouth.
Within a few days of the surgery, the wounds will start to heal and you can continue to rinse and brush your mouth carefully. Your temporary implants will be in place at this stage. Any special care instructions will be advised by your dentist, and you will be provided with a schedule for your next consultation.
Are There Problems That Can Occur with All on Four Dental Implants?
All on 4 Dental implants are safe and effective, but some complications can occur.
- Swelling is common after surgery. This will subside within three days. Ice packs can be used on your outer cheek to help reduce swelling.
- Pain after the surgery is normal. It will be significant but tolerable. Your dentist can prescribe medication for management if necessary.
- Hard foods and extremely hot or cold foods can damage the tissues around the implants in the days following your surgery. Soft foods are recommended in the days after the procedure. Hard and chewy foods are to be avoided until your dentist advises otherwise.
- Nausea is fairly common after surgery but typically subsides within 48 hours. If you continue to feel nauseous or ill, contact your dentist immediately.
- Stiff muscles, dry lips, and a sore throat are all minor complications following the surgery. These will subside within the first three days. Any lingering issues should be referred to your dental surgeon.
A Better Way to Restore Your Smile
All on 4 implants in Surrey BC are increasing in popularity. The fact that you can restore a complete smile within 24 hours is a marvel of modern dental medicine. Implants can last a lifetime, and dentures will last for years if not decades when properly cared for.
If you are suffering from extensive tooth loss, this could be the perfect procedure to give you back your self-confidence and unrestricted use of your teeth and mouth.
Are Dental Implants Worth It?
Should You Consider All-on-4 Dental Implants?
